Resellers Have US Open Ticket Prices Sky-High, One Week Before Grand Slam

Ticket prices at the US Open remain exorbitantly high, even as the prestigious Grand Slam tournament approaches one week away. The average get-in ticket price on the secondary market stands at $288, a 13% increase from the $255 reported last year, according to TicketData. Similarly, the average get-in price for the women's singles final and men's singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium is $510, also reflecting a 13% rise compared to the previous year.

Grounds pass tickets, which start around $65–$135 at face value, have even higher resale values, which vary significantly, with weeknight tickets being the most affordable; the cheapest ticket for any main draw event is $157, for the night session at Arthur Ashe on Wednesday, Sept. 2. This price surge has persisted since the initial release of face-value tickets through the American Express presale in May, with many tickets being purchased by bots, leading to the current inflated prices.

Despite Ticketmaster claiming to block around 20 billion bots per month, the issue remains a major concern. While ticket price hikes are common across numerous U.S. sporting events, the US Open's meteoric rise is unique due to its extensive off-court spectacle, including concerts, activities, and a renowned food and beverage scene, notably the Honey Deuce cocktail.

The tournament's popularity and the allure of star power have not translated into lower prices, as evidenced by the announcement of defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, who had no impact on ticket prices. Additionally, the availability of world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is recovering from a knee injury sustained at Wimbledon, and Serena Williams, who made her singles return at Wimbledon after a four-year hiatus, remain uncertain.

The US Open main draw is set to commence on Aug. 30, with qualifying beginning on Aug. 24. A variety of events, including the revamped mixed doubles event, will kick off the following week.